Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 II: Which One Reigns Supreme in the Camera World?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the world of photography are the Canon EOS 700D with its accompanying Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the ultimate champion? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor Size and Image Quality

The Canon EOS 700D boasts an APS-C CMOS sensor with 18 megapixels, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II features a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor with 16.1 megapixels. While the Canon has a slight advantage in terms of resolution, the Olympus sensor excels in low-light performance due to its smaller size. This allows the E-M5 II to capture images with less noise at higher ISO settings, making it a better choice for shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

Autofocus Performance

Both cameras offer impressive autofocus capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors in the center, providing fast and accurate focusing. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, on the other hand, features a 81-point contrast-detection autofocus system that covers a larger area of the sensor. This gives the E-M5 II an edge in terms of subject tracking and overall autofocus performance, especially for fast-moving objects.

Video Recording Capabilities

The Canon EOS 700D can record Full HD videos at 30fps, offering a decent video experience. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II outperforms its competitor with the ability to record Full HD videos at up to 60fps. This allows for smoother and more detailed video footage, particularly when capturing fast-paced action. Additionally, the E-M5 II’s in-body image stabilization system provides exceptional video stabilization, minimizing camera shake and resulting in smoother and more professional-looking footage.

Design and Features

The Canon EOS 700D features a traditional DSLR design with a large, comfortable grip. Its user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate, making it a great choice for beginners. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, on the other hand, boasts a more compact and lightweight design thanks to its Micro Four Thirds system. It offers a sophisticated and intuitive interface with a dedicated control dial and a tilting touchscreen, providing a more advanced user experience.

Lens System and Versatility

The Canon EOS 700D benefits from a vast selection of lenses in the Canon EF and EF-S system. This provides users with a wide range of options to suit various photography styles and needs. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, while having a smaller lens system, offers a growing selection of Micro Four Thirds lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and other third-party manufacturers. The smaller sensor size of the E-M5 II allows for smaller and lighter lenses, making it an ideal choice for travel and street photography.

Image Stabilization

The Canon EOS 700D relies on lens-based image stabilization, which is available only in select lenses. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, however, boasts in-body image stabilization, which effectively stabilizes the sensor itself, providing superior image stabilization across all lenses. This feature is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting in low-light conditions or when using telephoto lenses.

Battery Life

The Canon EOS 700D offers a decent battery life, with approximately 440 shots per charge. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, on the other hand, boasts a longer battery life with around 330 shots per charge, making it a better choice for extended shooting sessions.

Price and Value

The Canon EOS 700D is generally more affordable than the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II. However, the E-M5 II offers a more advanced feature set and superior image quality, making it a more premium option. Ultimately, the best value for your money depends on your individual needs and budget.

Which Camera is Right for You?

Canon EOS 700D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:

• Best for: Beginners, budget-conscious photographers, those who want a traditional DSLR experience, and those who prioritize a large lens selection.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 II:

• Best for: Enthusiast photographers, those who prioritize image quality and low-light performance, those who value in-body image stabilization, and those who prefer a compact and lightweight camera system.

The Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Cameras

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II are excellent cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Canon EOS 700D offers a traditional DSLR experience with a vast lens system and a user-friendly interface, making it a great option for beginners. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, on the other hand, provides superior image quality, low-light performance, and in-body image stabilization, making it a more advanced and versatile option for photographers who prioritize these features. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and shooting style.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What is the difference between an APS-C sensor and a Micro Four Thirds sensor?
A: APS-C sensors are larger than Micro Four Thirds sensors, resulting in a larger surface area for capturing light. This generally leads to better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. However, Micro Four Thirds sensors are smaller and lighter, allowing for more compact and lightweight camera bodies and lenses.
Q: What is in-body image stabilization?
A: In-body image stabilization (IBIS) is a technology that stabilizes the sensor itself, reducing camera shake and improving image sharpness. This is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting, especially in low-light conditions or when using telephoto lenses.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II offers better video recording capabilities than the Canon EOS 700D, with the ability to record Full HD videos at 60fps and superior in-body image stabilization.
Q: What is the best lens for the Canon EOS 700D?
A: The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a versatile kit lens that is a good starting point for the Canon EOS 700D. However, there are many other excellent lenses available for the Canon system, depending on your specific photography needs.
Q: Is the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II a good choice for beginners?
A: While the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II is a powerful and versatile camera, it may be a bit more complex for complete beginners. The Canon EOS 700D with its traditional DSLR design and user-friendly interface might be a better starting point for those new to photography.